In homage to such classic films as "The French Connection" and "Serpico," writer/director Joe Carnahan's "Narc" explores the dark underbelly of the drug world with a compelling story about the intense psyche behind those individuals called "narcs," undercover officers who put themselves on the front lines in the war against drugs. Chipping away at the number of dealers on the streets, these brave men and women leave their loved ones behind each day as they throw themselves into the brutal world of drug abuse for one purpose only"¦ to end it.

"Narc" tells the story of suspended narcotics officer, Nick Tellis (Jason Patric), who is reluctantly drawn back onto the force to find the truth behind the murder of a young police officer killed in the line of duty. He is teamed with Henry Oak (Ray Liotta), the slain officer's partner, a rogue cop who will stop at nothing to avenge his friend's death. As Tellis and Oak unravel the case, the dark underbelly of the narcotics world reveals itself in surprising ways that are more twisted than either officer has seen before"¦ and the mystery that slowly reveals itself threatens to destroy them both.

Nominated for the Dramatic Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in Utah and winner of the Special Prize Policier Award at the Cognac Film Festival in France, "Narc" is written and directed by an innovative new voice in filmmaking, Joe Carnahan ("Blood, Guts, Bullets and Octane").

The film stars Jason Patric ("Your Friends & Neighbors," "The Lost Boys," "Sleepers," "Rush") and Ray Liotta ("Hannibal," "Goodfellas"). An intense adrenaline rush from the very first heart-stopping chase scene to the stunning dramatic climax, this taut police thriller also features rap artist Busta Rhymes ("Finding Forester," "Shaft") and Chi McBride ("Undercover Brother," and television's "Boston Public").

Paramount Pictures and Lions Gate Films present, "Narc," a Cruise/Wagner Production in association with Splendid Pictures, Emmett Furia Films, A Julius R. Nasso Production and Tiara Blu Films. A Joe Carnahan Film, "Narc," is written and directed by Joe Carnahan and stars, Jason Patric, Ray Liotta, Busta Rhymes and Chi McBride.

The film is produced by Diane Nabatoff, Ray Liotta, Michelle Grace and Julius R. Nasso and executive produced by Tom Cruise, Paula Wagner and David C. Glasser. Additional executive producers are Randall Emmett, George Furla, Peter Block, Michael Z. Gordon, Jeff G. Waxman and Adam Stone. Co-executive producers are Carol Gillson, Brian R. Keathley, Andy Emilio, Jed Baron and Michael S. Grayson. Tony Grazia serves as line producer.

Paramount Pictures is part of the entertainment operations of Viacom Inc., one of the world's largest entertainment and media companies and a leader in the production, promotion and distribution of entertainment, news, sports and music.

The film is rated "R" by the M.P.A.A. for strong brutal violence, drug content and pervasive language.